Cyclamen hederifolium aka Cyclamen

Taxonomy

Cyclamen hederifolium, also known as ivy-leaved cyclamen or sowbread, is a resilient and widely cultivated species of flowering plant in the Primulaceae family. It thrives in oceanic climates and can be found in woodland, shrubland, and rocky areas across the Mediterranean region, from southern France to western Turkey and Mediterranean islands. This versatile species has also naturalized in Europe and the Pacific Northwest. During autumn, Cyclamen hederifolium produces purple-red flowers that bloom above leaves adorned with silver patterning. It is a tuberous perennial that sprouts leaves and blooms in autumn, grows throughout the winter, and becomes dormant before summer. The tuber, which becomes larger with age, is round-flattened and produces roots from the top and sides, leaving the base bare. The leaves of this species vary in shape and color, ranging from heart-shaped to long and arrow-shaped, often with 2-3 angled lobes on each side resembling ivy leaves. The most common leaf pattern is a Christmas tree or hastate pattern in silver or pewter, along with various shades of green. The flowers, which typically appear from late summer to autumn, have five petals and are usually pink, purple, or white with a streaky magenta V-shaped marking on the nose. However, pure white flowers with no markings also occur. Overall, Cyclamen hederifolium is a robust and visually striking plant that adds beauty to gardens and landscapes.

Common names

Cyclamen, Sowbread, Ivy Leaf Cyclamen

How to care for Cyclamen

Difficulty

Cyclamen presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Cyclamen should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cyclamen loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Cyclamen thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Ivy Leaf Cyclamen.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Cyclamen to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Cyclamen. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Cyclamen is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Cyclamen’s native range is Europe and the Mediterranean.


More info:
Wikipedia